5 Questions (and Answers) for the New Lion Program

March 15, 2016

More Information on the New Lion Program

As we mentioned earlier on the Cub Hub, Select councils will gear up this Fall to pilot Lions, a new Scouting program for Kindergarten age boys. Sounds simple, right? Some might think it’s simply a matter of adding a new rank to Cub Scouting. But that’s not quite right. Although there are similarities, there are also differences between the new Lion program and the core Cub Scouting program.

1. So What is a “Lion” Anyway?

The Lion program, like all of Scouting’s programs, weaves the concepts of character development, leadership skills, personal fitness, and citizenship into activities that are age-appropriate and fun. “Adventures” (themed sets of activities and experiences) will assist Lion families in exploring the world around them.

2. What Will the Lion Experience Be Like?

As they complete the requirements for each adventure, Lions will earn an adventure sticker to be placed in their Lion Adventure Book. Lions earn stickers, but not adventure loops (belt loops) as they will do in Cub Scouting. Moreover, Lions will be led by parents filling the role of “Lion Guides” and will meet as dens of 6-8 kindergarten age boys. Lions will wear their own approved uniform, a Lion t-shirt! It will be available in pilot-approved Scout Shops to help the Lions feel unique and special. Lions should not wear the Cub Scout uniform until they are old enough to officially transition into Cub Scouting as a Tiger.

3. Is there Any Involvement with Cub Scouts?

Of course, Lion dens may be invited to participate in a few pack meetings, but care should be taken to ensure that any meetings they attend are fun and engaging for boys of Lion age. Boys are restless by nature…younger boys even more so. Late nights, long meetings, lots of sitting and listening should be avoided for Cub Scouts and Lions alike. Instead, meaningful and fun activities should be planned for Lions in any meetings they attend.

4. When do Lions Become Cub Scouts?

At the end of the kindergarten year, Lions will “graduate” into Cub Scouting as a Tiger…where they will continue their grand adventure in Scouting, where future memories will be made and Cub Scout activities await.

5. When Will More Information Be Made Available?

More information, including program specifics and FAQ’s, will be made available in the coming months. Since its announcement two weeks ago, the Lion pilot program has generated much enthusiasm! Please join in that excitement as we test new ways to reach America’s youth with the benefits of Scouting!